The public hearing on the proposed Shree Cement limestone mining project at Lum Syrman under Elaka Nongkhlieh in East Jaintia Hills was called off on Friday after violent protests and a breakdown of law and order disrupted the proceedings. The hearing, organized by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, could not commence as opposition groups, who were present in large numbers, expressed strong resentment against the proposed mining project and prevented officials from initiating the proceedings.
Tension escalated at the venue when protesters allegedly hurled chairs towards the area where officials conducting the public hearing were seated. The opposition groups were later seen rejoicing and dancing after the announcement that the hearing had been cancelled. The protesters also demanded that the Pollution Control Board issue a written order confirming the cancellation of the public hearing.
Earlier in the day, the situation had already turned volatile after a truck was allegedly set on fire by members of the opposition groups, who claimed that the vehicle had been deliberately parked in the middle of the road to prevent them from attending the hearing venue.